Who holds clinical responsibility for maternity care within a primary care referral?

The local midwifery context in New Zealand emphasizes that the lead maternity carer (LMC) midwife holds clinical responsibility for maternity care during primary care referrals. This position is essential as LMC midwives are specifically trained and qualified to manage and oversee the care of women throughout their pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period.

In the framework of New Zealand's maternity care system, when a woman is referred for specific needs, the LMC midwife maintains the overall clinical responsibility for the woman's care. This responsibility includes monitoring the woman’s health status, coordinating with other health professionals as needed, and ensuring that the necessary interventions or referrals are provided in a timely manner.

This model is built on the understanding that LMC midwives are central to providing continuity of care and ensuring that women have a dedicated practitioner who understands their unique needs and preferences. Consequently, while obstetricians, hospital staff, and family doctors may play supportive roles in maternity care, particularly in cases requiring specialized input or interventions, the fundamental clinical responsibility remains with the LMC midwife, reflecting the collaborative and woman-centered approach that underpins New Zealand's maternity services.